Zip-a-dee-doo-dah, zip-a-dee-ay! Raise a glass to zinfandel, Paso Robles’ punchy heritage grape this spring. In Paso Robles, winemakers march to their own drum beat. Why not follow that groove off the beaten path, where a slew of “zinful” events await? Yes, we’re talking Vintage Paso: Zinfandel Weekend March 20-22! The thrilling three day celebration encompasses a range of “zinscursions,” including a Zinposium Seminar and Z After Party. Plus, dozens of participating wineries are pulling out all the stops, ensuring you have one wild weekend to write home about. From lively winemaker dinners and intimate pairings, concerts and more, this annual ode to zinfandel offers up a vibrant opportunity to take part in the past, present and future of this personality-packed varietal.
1. Italian vibes at Pelletiere
Plush pleasure awaits at Pelletiere, known for elegant, Italian varietals produced in the famed Paso Robles Willow Creek District. Among these bold characters you’ll find top notch sangiovese, montepulciano, nebbiolo, lagrein, and primitivo (yes, also known as our friend zinfandel). Enjoy terrific tastings paired with delicious accompaniments, plus live music, specials and giveaways planned throughout the entire festival weekend. Take in the stunning views of their vineyards and swoon over their wines. Closer than an Italian vacation—and far less expensive.
Mapping and Directions to Pelletiere Estate click here
2. DIY your lunch at Robert Hall
Roll up your sleeves and eat like you mean it. On March 21, from noon to 3 p.m., the Robert Hall tasting room will be transformed into a bustling soiree. Enjoy wine and (get this) DIY wood-fired pizza! Not sure you know how? No worries. Pulcinella Pizza will guide you through stretching, rolling and topping your own pie. As the pizza bakes in a traditional wood-fired oven, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the vineyard view from the terrace. You do good work!
Mapping and Directions to Robert Hall Winery click here
3. Release the Oxen!
Oh, sweet release! Seven Oxen will release new wines on the world on Saturday, March 21 with a pick up party of epic proportions. Swing by the tasting room from 5 to 8 p.m. for live music, a tasting flight and gourmet burger made by chef Jacob Lovejoy (tickets are $25 each for the public, free to club members). Always in tune with the land, Seven Oxen is known for producing wines true to terroir. Celebrate the birth of the winery’s 2016 vintage, but sure to get your hands on these bottles fast! With just 500 cases produced, these limited boutique wines are as rare as they are remarkable.
Mapping and Directions to Seven Oxen Estate Wines click here
4. Joy is served at JUSTIN
Come on baby, light my fire. This March 21-22, celebrate Vintage Paso Weekend at JUSTIN, where live music and mingling will overflow from the terrace patio. Grub down on gourmet barbecue paired with special barrel tastings and let the good times roll on. Known for always providing casual education at every tasting, you’re sure to leave with a heightened appreciation for Paso’s heritage grape (and fancy barbecue sauce).
Mapping and Directions to JUSTIN Winery click here
5. Everyone loves Eberle
Ask anyone. Zinfandel pairs with barbecue like no other wine, and Eberle is here to prove it. March 21-22 from noon to 5 p.m., belly up to the winery’s famous tri-tip bites prepared by Gary Eberle and friends. In addition to complimentary tasting, you can also take advantage of a free Cave Tasting from 11-4 p.m. End the day digging some awesome music from Jason Cade on the Vineyard Deck (yes, you might just feel like dancing. Go with it).
Mapping and Directions to Eberle Winery click here
6. Say howdy to Rangeland Wines
Agriculture meets wine culture at Rangeland Wines, and our rumbling bellies sure do love that combination. Sample the winery’s 2017 Zinfandel and taste a forthcoming 2018 barrel sample during Zinfandel Weekend—but make sure you come hungry. On Saturday, March 21 from noon to 4 p.m., the winery will serve its famous estate grass-fed beef and lamb hamburgers next to their beautiful pond. Yum! Round out the meal with a salad and cheese and charcuterie plate, if you’re feeling extra peckish.
Mapping and Directions to Rangeland Wines click here
7. Continue to party on Zinfest Weekend, there’s more!
Oh, there’s so much more! On March 20, Opolo Vineyards will host a fabulous winemaker dinner, Cass Winery will host a special Sunset Social and Peachy Canyon will feature a winemaker-guided tasting that’s oh so good.
Mapping and Directions to Opolo Vineyards click here
Mapping and Directions to Cass Winery click here
Mapping and Directions to Peachy Canyon click here
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
Looking for a place to stay in Paso Robles?
The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, lo
cally owned hotel known for its friendly staff and lush landscaping. With spacious rooms and a convenient location close to highway 101 and the event center – home of the California Mid-State Fair – this hotel is a great choice for most travelers. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/AdelaideInn
Majestically set among vineyards, olive groves and fruit baring orchards, the 20-acre Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a world unto itself, offering breathtaking settings that inspire and bring joy to all who choose this memorable wine country haven. Featuring 171 rooms and suites, on-site spa, grand ballroom, wine tasting room, and inspired culinary creations at Cello, the resort’s full service restaurant.
Directions: speedfind.com/Allegretto
Wouldn’t you love to wake up among the vines? Eden House at Carriage Vineyards Bed & Breakfast is on a real working vineyard and longhorn ranch in the Paso Robles Wine Region. Our rooms overlook vineyards, creeks and oaks, right in the Paso Robles Wine Country of Central California.
Directions: speedfind.com/edenhouse
Spend an idyllic getaway at Briarwood Cottage at ONX Estate Vineyards in an English-cottage inspired vineyard-side home. Guests may rent rooms in the main cottage, reserve the entire main cottage for a large group, or book the fully equipped apartment. Wake up to peaceful vineyard views and spend twilight hours sipping wine on the back porch of the cottage. It’s a time you won’t quickly forget. Contact us for pricing and availability (see form below). Case, 6 Bottle, and 4 Bottle Collective Members receive preferred pricing.
Directions: speedfind.com/BriarCottage
Hampton Inn & Suites Paso Robles is nestled in the Central Coast wine region, home to over 200 wineries, beautiful beaches, mountains and diverse attractions. Relax and revive in a comfortable guest room with all you need for a successful stay. You can count on Hampton to deliver value, consistency and service with a smile. We love having you here®
Directions: speedfind.com/PRWine.HamptonInn
Treat yourself to the ultimate Paso Robles wine country experience by booking your stay at The Inn at Opolo Vineyards. Guests enjoy our luxurious, spacious rooms and all of the sensory pleasures of Paso Robles in one destination. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/oploVineyards
Enjoy the elegance, style and natural beauty of California’s Central Coast at the JUST Inn®. Surrounded by vineyards, our JUST Inn Suites offer luxurious appointments like fireplaces, Tempur-Pedic®mattresses, Frette linens, hydro-spa tubs, and range in size from 600–1,200 square feet. An overnight stay includes breakfast and a tour of the winery and caves. TOUR VIRTUALLY
Directions: speedfind.com/JustinWine
La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.
Directions: speedfind.com/LaBellasera
Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at Lekai Ranch. Lounge on the porch of your private suite and lose yourself in the tranquility and stunning views of the vineyards and oak studded hills beyond. This vacation rental is located just minutes from some of the most distinguished wineries and a premier olive oil estate, and only 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles’ restaurants, wineries and shopping. TAKE AN AERIAL TOUR
Directions: speedfind.com/Lekai | vrbo.com/701796
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, also known as PasoStay.com assists guests in creating memories and wonderful experiences by providing quality privately owned vacation home rentals in Paso Robles Wine Country. With over 90 vacation homes to choose from, small enough for a couple’s romantic getaway to large homes amongst local vineyards and olive orchards, PasoStay.com has the perfect option for you. Feel free to call 805-423-9174 to talk with a local expert or book online at PasoStay.com.
Directions: speedfind.com/PasoRoblesVacationRentals
